On Tuesday, September 16, Aperture hosted a panel discussion geared specifically towards young, first-time collectors on the ins and outs of collecting affordable photography. Moderated by Laurel Ptak, Aperture’s Educational Programs Manager, the discussion included Kellie McLaughlin of Aperture’s Limited-Edition Photographs Program, Amani Olu, founder and executive director of the Humble Arts Foundation, collector Ruben Natal-San Miguel of ARTmostfierce arts blog, and photographer Brian Ulrich. In case you missed it, here is another chance to listen to each panelist’s presentation or the entire discussion.

Kellie McLaughlin kicks off the talk, presenting Aperture’s longstanding limited-edition photographs program. It all began in 1968 when Paul Strand’s Mexican portfolio was reprinted for greater availability and accessibility. Kellie gives examples of the collection’s diversity from classics such as Edward Steichen and Dorothea Lange, to contemporary visionaries including Richard Misrach, Thomas Allen, Michal Chelbin and Martin Parr. She highlights the strength of Aperture’s program—particularly for young collectors—with its affordable prices and savvy image choices made by Aperture editors and curators.
Click here to download and listen to Kellie.

Ruben Natal-San Miguel talks about his passion for collecting even during these terrible weeks for Wall Street, underlining that art is what lasts. He starts by noting the importance of timing as these prints are typically limited in number and can often sell out. He also suggests asking oneself if the photograph will still resonate for them twenty years later. And most importantly, he advises the collector to “do their homework,” researching online resources—more specifically, blogs which have an incredibly strong impact on the collecting community today. He also shares a glimpse of his collection, which focuses on emerging photographers. Click here to download and listen to Ruben.

Amani Olu explains the concept behind his creation of Humble Arts Foundation in 2005, a platform for emerging artists through online and physical exhibitions, educational programs, grants and their limited-edition program. With a strong and passionate vision, this non-profit has featured hundreds of photographers, and has quickly become an important resource for collectors. In this spirit, Amani gives an exclusive preview of his collector’s guide to emerging art photography to be published in spring of 2009. He also shares his take on the differences in working for a non-profit organization and a commercial gallery. Click here to download and listen to Amani.

Artist Brian Ulrich presents his newest work photographing art fairs around the world. Regarding the art market, he also explains how photography has recently become a highly collectible item responding to the immediacy of the market compared to other mediums, and how the emerging technologies have increased the proximity between collectors and artists. Click here to download and listen to Brian.

Download the entire lecture series here.